Tips to Choose the Right Breast Pump For You & Baby!
NEED A BREAST PUMP ? YOUR JOURNEY STARTS HERE...
With the current brands & models of breast pumps in the market...trying to determine exactly the right choice for you might be a bit overwhelming. As with most buying decisions, the journey starts by asking some basic questions. By understanding your budget, lifestyle and how you plan to use the breast pump, the choices can be easier.
Tip #1 Do You Want to Buy or Rent a Breast Pump?
Some mothers choose to rent a breast pump because they used the Symphony breast pump when they were in the hospital and liked it so much they want to continue using it. Since it is hospital grade and also supports initiation of breastfeeding, it is also perfect for mothers with twins or little ones with extra needs.
The Symphony pump feature 2-Phase Expression technology with a one-touch let-down button. This technology mimics the sucking behavior of your baby and together with double pumping enables you to express more milk in less time.
TIP #2: Figure Out How Often Do I Plan to Use a Breast Pump?
First ask yourself, “How am I going to use my breast pump?” Are you going to want to pump exclusively, or on a daily basis? Are you returning to work where you will want to pump several times a day? Or do you want to have some milk on hand so that your partner can feed baby if you are taking a break.
My go to company-Medela offers two basic configuration categories – manual or electric, single or double. If you will pump daily, a double pump like Medela’s Freestyle is a good choice. It is an innovative and highly efficient pump, designed with busy moms in mind. For convenience, this breast pump also includes an ice-pack, cooler bag and bottles for breastmilk storage and transport. However, if the price of Medela Freestyle is above your budget and you’re looking for a more simple option for your daily pumping, have a look at Pump In Style.
Alternatively, are you planning to use a breast pump only on an occasional basis or want to have a simple pump available when you are away for a few hours? If so, there are also some great lightweight and easy-to-use choices. A hand-powered and discreet pump, like the Medela Harmony, might be right for you. Or, if you’d prefer a single electric pump, the Medela Swing single breast pump could be your selection. Both of these options are great if you occasionally want to leave your baby with your partner or babysitter. You can then plan ahead to pump and store enough breastmilk for them to feed to your baby.
Tip #3-What is the Best Match for My Lifestyle?
If you are a busy “on the go” mom and want a breast pump that you can carry with you everywhere. Freestyle is a double-electric pump that offers portability for you. If you pump exclusively or have to be away from your baby, this versatile pump is a great choice. A bonus is that the Freestyle has a rechargeable battery, so you don’t have to worry about finding an electric outlet when you are out and about.
If you don’t plan to be away from your baby frequently and only need a pump occasionally, check out either Medela Harmony or Swing. Harmony is a manual pump that doesn’t require electricity or batteries for operation. It has an intuitive design and it’s easy to take apart and clean. If you prefer an electric pump, check out Swing, Medela’s smallest and lightest electric pump.
